Arabic version: ترامب يشير إلى احتمال تأجيل توقيع مذكرة التفاهم مع إيران
US President Donald Trump has suggested that the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) beginning the process of ending the US-Israeli war with Iran could still fall through. During a press conference at the G7 Summit in Evian, France, Trump expressed uncertainty about the deal’s finalization scheduled for Friday. According to Al Jazeera, he noted that despite optimism, the situation remains fluid, stating, “You never know with deals, do you? But you’re going to find out pretty soon.”
Trump’s comments came alongside mixed signals from US officials regarding the MOU’s status. While it was reported that the deal had already been digitally signed on Sunday, both the US and Iran retain the option to withdraw until the final signing on Friday. The MOU is intended to end hostilities, lift the US naval blockade, and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, with further negotiations planned over the next 60 days on Iran’s nuclear program and regional activities.
The MOU outlines a commitment to a $300 billion reconstruction plan for Iran, contingent on the country’s compliance with the agreement. Trump emphasized that any unfreezing of Iranian assets must be handled cautiously, reiterating that the funds belong to Iran and were previously frozen by the US.
Criticism has emerged from both sides of the US political spectrum regarding the lack of transparency surrounding the agreement. Senator Mark Kelly expressed concerns over the limited information available, while Senate Majority Leader John Thune noted the pressure on the White House to release the official text of the MOU. US Vice President JD Vance stated that the administration is eager to disclose the deal’s details to the American people, emphasizing a desire for clarity in diplomatic negotiations.
Despite the uncertainties, Trump characterized the MOU as a significant diplomatic achievement, suggesting it could lead to a more comprehensive nuclear agreement than the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). He also acknowledged the complexities posed by ongoing Israeli military actions in Lebanon, which could impact the nascent agreement with Iran.
